Sir Jackie Stewart has issued the following statement on behalf of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), owners of Silverstone:

"Last night's Formula 1 event in London was an excellent promotion for this weekend's sell-out British Grand Prix. The level of attendance highlights the support for Formula 1 in the UK.

"If there is to be an additional Grand Prix in London the financial viability must be carefully evaluated, especially in relation to the cost to the British taxpayer.

"We are dismayed at Bernie Ecclestone's latest threat to the future of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. His deadline of 30 September 2004, as stated in the press, has never been mentioned in all our discussions with FOA (Formula One Administration) and the British Government.

"We are surprised at Mr Ecclestone's backtracking on the FOA's assurances of the security of the 2005/2006 Grand Prix. Mr Ecclestone instigated the discussions with regard to a promoter of his choice being appointed by FOA and the BRDC to run the 2005 and 2006 Grand Prix - these discussions continue.

"It is sad to see a dark cloud over the future of Silverstone this weekend when we should be celebrating the pre-eminence of our motorsport industry and hoping for a British winner on Sunday."